Monday, January 23, 2012

Where Crane screwed up

And then Crane screwed up. He mentioned exploring a name change. It doesn't matter that it was just a matter of exploration, or that he would seek fan input. All anyone is going to remember from this remarkable press conference is that it is theoretically possible that "Astros County" will have to go through a domain and Twitter name change, as well.

Crane shouldn't have even mentioned it. Fans were excited about going to Minute Maid again - and they probably still are - but they're all of a sudden too pissed off that, not only are the Astros going to be in the American League, the Astros might not even be the Astros when it happens.

In all likelihood, Crane already knows that it's unpopular. Someone maybe even printed out tweets on a dot matrix printer and showed it to him. But if he's seeking fan input, then you've already had your say. What was mentioned as a best-case scenario for Astros fans with new ownership in 2012? Everything that Crane said he'd do at the beginning of the press conference.

I would be very surprised if it even gets talked about further - other than a "We're keeping the name" press conference. For now, just settle down, everything is going to be alright. Probably.

This comment has done exactly what it was supposed to do, and get people talking Astros during January. That's hard to do, and it didn't cost a dime. There aren't many positive topics when talking Astros, so getting a positive response is a big win. Now about that name change...not unless they go back to Buffaloes or 45's. Eveen those would be a hard sell. Gimme some orange and navy with a shooting star and I'm happy.

Really don't buy into the ol "all press is good press" idea. Getting mentioned by the local press because you have riled up your fanbase brings nothing positive. Getting mentioned by the national press means little as those folks don't buy tickets or watch the games.

If this was intentional because he really wants to change the name, then he is clueless. If it is intentional because he somehow equates negative press as helpful in the long run, then he is also clueless.

I'm hoping he just isn't very PR saavy and now realizes it was a huge mistake.

About Astros County

Established in 2008, Astros County is your friendly neighborhood blog & grill. We are the Protectors of the Legacy of Dickie Thon, Defenders of the Honor of J.R. Richard, and Anti-American League. Orlando Palmeiro Was Safe.